“I am no longer in pain, and I have peace of mind knowing my symptoms were not related to something more serious. Thank you to my provider and his team for granting me that gift.”

Fifteen years ago, Lorenzo left his home in Oaxaca and came to Sonoma County with his siblings, chasing the hope of a better future. Over time and through hard work, he began to build a life here—meeting his wife, starting a family, and embracing new beginnings alongside his siblings. Life was good and for a time, he was happy, healthy, and fulfilled. But in 2016, everything changed when he lost one of his brothers in a devastating accident. Grief took hold, and Lorenzo found himself slipping into a depression. He began to rely heavily on alcohol and unhealthy foods to cope.

Last year, Lorenzo began experiencing persistent stomach pain, acid reflux, and nausea. The symptoms raised deep concerns—he worried it might be cancer.

Without insurance and recently laid off, Lorenzo didn’t have a clear path forward. He visited Sonoma Valley Community Health Center where Nurse Practitioner Stacie Anderson evaluated his condition and determined he needed an endoscopy. Lorenzo, unable to afford the out-of-pocket cost for care, was referred to our program.  

We connected Lorenzo with the Providence Santa Rosa Gastroenterology Department, where Dr. Stephen DeNigris and his team performed the endoscopy at Petaluma Valley Hospital. Thankfully, the results showed gastritis—not cancer. Dr. DeNigris prescribed a medication, a treatment plan, and guidance on how to manage his symptoms through diet. Lorenzo began to heal, physically and emotionally.  

“I am no longer in pain, and I have peace of mind knowing my symptoms were not related to something more serious,” he shared. “Thank you to my provider and his team for granting me that gift.” 

Today, Lorenzo feels more at ease and positive about his health. He has adopted a healthier lifestyle—frequently jogging, taking walks with his family, cooking healthy meals, and making choices that support his and his family’s well-being.

Story and photo shared with patient’s permission.